An Anglican parish on Avenue Road that emerged from low-church tradition, rebuilt after a devastating fire to serve as a flexible spiritual and community space.
At a glance
The Church of the Messiah stands at the corner of Avenue Road and Dupont Street in Toronto. Founded in 1891 by members of the nearby Church of the Redeemer, it was designed by the architectural firm Gordon & Helliwell. A devastating arson fire in 1976 gutted the interior, but the church rebuilt while preserving its exterior character, creating a multipurpose liturgical space that now serves worship, community meals, childcare, and the local food bank.
History
The parish was established on March 24, 1891, by Anglican families seeking their own church community. Gordon & Helliwell designed both the church building and a rectory, though the latter has long since passed from church ownership.
The turning point came in 1976, when arson destroyed the parish hall and gutted the interior. Toronto police convicted the perpetrator. Rather than simply restore the old design, the church seized the opportunity to reimagine its interior layout, prioritizing flexibility and community use alongside traditional worship.
What you see
The church preserves its original exterior, a defining feature maintained through the post-fire reconstruction. Inside, the interior was radically redesigned to accommodate multiple configurations—the liturgical space transforms to suit different worship styles, gatherings, and programs. This adaptability reflects the church’s evolving role in the neighbourhood.
Cultural significance
For much of its history, the Church of the Messiah was a center of low-church Anglicanism in Canada. Every rector prior to the current incumbent trained at Wycliffe College; several became notable preachers, and two rose to the rank of Bishop. Today, the church is recognized for its creative liturgy, inclusive congregation, and deep commitment to food security and social support—operating the Avenue Road Food Bank and hosting community meals, daycare services, and arts rehearsals.
Key facts
- Founded: March 24, 1891
- Location: 240 Avenue Road, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Coordinates: 43.676916, −79.397866
- Architect: Gordon & Helliwell
- Major fire (arson): 1976; rebuilt with redesigned interior
- Current Incumbent: Rev’d Elivered Mulongo
Practical information & getting there
The Church of the Messiah is located at 240 Avenue Road, at the corner of Dupont Street in midtown Toronto. For current service times, community programs, and the food bank schedule, consult the parish website or contact the church directly.
Sources & resources
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